Courtesy of Fresno State

HOUSTON – Fresno State senior offensive lineman Moses Vavao was named to the preseason watch list for the 2024 Lombardi Award, announced by the organization on Thursday. The award is given to the college player who best embodies the values ​​and spirit of legendary NFL coach Vince Lombardi. It is presented to outstanding linemen who best embody their values ​​of leadership, courage, performance and discipline on and off the field. In addition, the watch list includes players who consistently demonstrate the values ​​of strength, agility and football skill at their respective positions.

Vavao is one of 90 of the nation’s best linemen and linebackers on the watch list. He is one of six centers on the list. Based on past performance and potential for the upcoming season, this list consists of a select group of talented athletes representing the best from all FBS conferences and independent teams. Vavao is one of two selections from the Mountain West.

A Bulldog since 2020, Vavao returns in 2024 as one of the most experienced players on the roster. This season, he leads a veteran offensive line in a new role as center. The Newark, California native has played both left guard and right guard in his Bulldogs career. Vavao was selected to the All-Mountain West second team in 2023, starting all 13 games at right guard.

He has been an anchor on the Bulldogs’ offensive line throughout his career, starting 42 of 46 consecutive games played since 2020. Vavao returns in 2024 as the Fresno State team’s all-time leader in number of games started (42) in his career and second on the team in number of games played (46).

Vavao’s preseason accolades have piled up in 2024. He was named a preseason All-Mountain West selection by the league’s media. He was named to the Outland Trophy and Polynesian College Football Player of the Year candidate lists. He has also received recognition from Phil Steele, Athlon Sports and College Football Network.